North East MPs have welcomed the news of a ban on the use of mobile phones while driving.

In future, motorists who use a hand-held mobile phone behind the wheel will face fines of up to &#xA3;1,000 and get three points on their licence every time they are caught.

Transport secretary Alastair Darling was behind the crackdown, which has also been warmly welcomed by MPs Doug Henderson, Ronnie Campbell, and John McWilliam.

From December 1 this year, it will be illegal to drive using a hand-held set. Offenders will get a &#xA3;30 fixed penalty fine, which can be increased to a maximum of &#xA3;1,000 for regular offenders if the matter goes to court.

The Government is also planning to make it an endorsable offence, meaning drivers will get three points on their licence each time they are caught holding a phone.

Newcastle North MP Mr Henderson said: "I have listened to the road safety arguments and support this, but the law must be carefully used to take account of those occasions when someone may have to use a phone."

Blyth Valley MP Mr Campbell said: "This is exactly right. It is dangerous to use a mobile phone while driving. It must be stopped."

Blaydon MP Mr McWilliam said: "This is a very good move and long overdue. Just recently I saw someone driving with a lighted cigarette in his hand and a mobile phone clamped to his ear. He was just an accident waiting to happen."

The move was announced to MPs at Westminster in a written statement by Mr Darling's road safety minister David Jamieson.